If you’re looking to improve your smile, there are many reasons to choose dental veneers. A veneer is a thin covering that is placed over the front (visible) part of the tooth. Veneers can correct a wide range of dental issues, such as:

• Lighten front teeth that can’t be whitened by bleaching
• Correcting some cases of chipped or worn teeth
• Filling in uneven spaces or large gaps between the upper front teeth

TYPES OF VENEERS

Veneers are made of either ceramic or composite resin material. Your dentist will help you choose the material that’s best for you, based on strength, stain resistance, color, and appearance. Each type of veneer has its own benefits.

A ceramic veneer is a thin shell that’s custom-made to fit on the tooth. A few benefits of ceramic veneers include:

A composite resin veneer is made from a tooth-colored filling material that’s bonded onto the tooth. Benefits of composite veneers include:

• May require removal of less tooth enamel than is necessary for ceramic veneers
• May require fewer visits to the dentist – sometimes these veneers just take one visit!
• May cost less than ceramic veneers
• Easy to replace if damaged; although composite veneers are generally not as strong or wear-resistant as ceramic veneers, composite veneers are easily and quickly repaired.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Who is a good candidate for veneers?

Anyone with healthy gums who would like to correct gaps, tooth color, or chips in the teeth.

Can veneers be taken off?

No. Once the veneers are adhered to the existing tooth, the process cannot be undone. This is because some of the enamel is removed from each tooth. Like any dental restoration, it is possible, over time and with normal wear, for veneers to come loose. In that case, you may need to see your dentist for new veneers.

Can veneers chip like a real tooth?

Yes. Veneers look like real teeth and they chip just like real teeth. Avoid biting your fingernails, grinding your teeth, and chewing on hard objects, such as pencils or ice.